Forest Nursery

[MotherOfPigeons]

Does anyone have a child at a forest school nursery, and if so what did they need in terms of kit?

My son will be going two days a week from next year. I’ve got two sets of merino wool joggers and long sleeved tops, two fleeces, an insulated snow suit, snow boots, gloves, waterproof shell gloves, merino wool snood, merino wool hat with ear flaps, several pairs of wool socks, water bottle, backpack.

Is there anything else I’m likely to need for him?

You sound sorted for winter, but it won't be cold enough for that stuff most of the time!

Waterproof trousers, and trainers

Weirdest 'merino wool' based stealth brag ever?!? 🙄🙄

All second hand from vinted & Facebook marketplace because I can’t afford new and the nursery specifically recommended it. Don’t be sneery, this isn’t AIBU!

DD had a forest school at preschool and just went in her normal uniform. They provided the wet weather gear except wellies. I did have to provide them. Plus hat, gloves and scarf etc

lol

This is true! But we’re north Scotland so it will be cold well into March.

That’s a sensible system. For this one you have to provide your own kit. It’s fully outdoors, they don’t have any indoor space at all.

Blimey that sounds like a massive expense. Pretty cool though x

Ask the nursery! They will I'm sure have a recommended kit list, and different settings will provide / expect you to provide different kit.

Looking at your list I'd suggest waterproofs in addition to the snow suit. You'll know that it tends to be wet all year, but not necessarily cold.

Depending on the toileting ability or not of your child consider ease of clothing removal for staff / your child whilst still remaining warm.

That’s a good point. He’s potty trained and reliable about it, but separate waterproofs might make things easier if he needs to go in a hurry

unfortunately yes 😞 even second hand it was pricey and I bought the boots and waterproof new to ensure they had no leaks etc. I waited for the last minute and ordered a size up so they’ll hopefully last next year too!

Also, make sure the gloves are on strings. Lots of kids hate wearing gloves as they can't feel through them, and they will get lost easily.

My son went to a fully outdoor forest school - it was amazing! I'd say layers are your friend. It took some getting used to, but I used lots of layers and a thick Coat. Merino wool is great, thick socks (& spares), good footwear and a neck tube. Once you have all the stuff it's easy! I hope they have a great time.

Just a sensible parent thinking about thermals? Really don't think there's anything to brag about when it comes to undergarments surely?! 🤣 maybe I'm missing something. Was told by a grandma at the rugby on Saturday that I needed to get myself some merino wool or silk under layers and socks as apparently they make the best thermal skins. I didn't think she was bragging in the slightest!

My son loved his fully outdoor nursery and he was there 5 days a week and loved it! You will need those layers for a fully outdoor nursery (especially in the north of Scotland) I’d recommend tights as an under layer, that was a tip the owners gave me, it stops any seams/labels rubbing and prevents drafts if layers ride up of fall down. Also if it’s still cold but not cold enough for merino layers they work as well. He will have a ball!

This may be a bit wee to read but I found this helpful when mine went to an outdoor nature club over winter.

Yeah sorry, looks a bit blurry like that, I could try to dm if you like, or you may find something similar by googling.

Thank you all so much for the helpful responses!

Lots of changes of clothes, warm socks, wellies, warm coat, hat and gloves. They provided waterproofs.

Put insoles in the wellies, makes them warmer and more comfortable. Synthetic ones are fine, don’t buy felted wool as they shrink when their feet sweat.